In this review

Advice for buyers

What should I look for in a used Fiat 500X estate?

You could order electrically adjustable lumbar support as part of a reasonably priced comfort pack when new, so look out for this option when drawing up a list of cars to view.

Larger alloy wheels can be damaged by kerbs, so check that there aren’t any nasty chunks taken out of the metal.

Diesel models are all fitted with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). If there's a warning light on, it'll mean that a blocked filter needs to be regenerated (a process that burns off the trapped soot). If you frequently travel on the motorway, the exhaust should become hot enough to compete this process without you noticing. However, if you mostly drive in the city, you'll need to make a special journey at a higher speed to unclog the filter.

What are the most common problems with a used Fiat 500X estate?

Airbag module

There is a software issue with the airbag control module on 500X models made between 24 October 2017 and 18 April 2019 that could cause a problem in the event of a collision. A Fiat dealer will be able to tell you if your car is affected and perform a software update to fix the issue.

Loss of drive

On examples equipped with an automatic gearbox, there is a known problem where it can slip into neutral because of a wiring issue. It applies to cars made from 23 December 2015 and 1 August 2018, and requires a software update at a Fiat dealer, along with new wiring if required.

Rear seat latch

The rear seat back of some cars manufactured between 2 June 2015 and 1 August 2018 could, in the event of a collision, unlatch itself and allow items from the boot to enter the interior with the potential to cause injury to those inside. Affected vehicles will need to have a new latch to be installed at a Fiat dealer to prevent this from happening.

Is a used Fiat 500X estate reliable?

Sadly, the 500X wasn't in our latest What Car? reliability study, but the Jeep Renegade, a car on which the 500X is based, came last. Owners have reported bodywork and electrical issues that often took more than a day to sort out.

The Fiat brand did better than in previous years, coming in 19th out of 31 brands, which is still a distinctly middle-of-the-road performance.